To hire new G.M., Panthers could use search firm in lieu of consultant

When it comes to fixing the Panthers over the long haul, the Panthers may be relying on a search firm.

A league source tells PFT that the Panthers may hire Jed Hughes (who has helped other teams hire executives, including the Bears and Jerry Angelo in 2001) or some other league-recommended firm. This approach would balance out the reality that a consultant will come to the table with a short list of relatives, cronies, and/or colleagues who would be recommended for the job, regardless of the specific needs of the franchise.

The Panthers cannot hire anyone who currently is employed by another team until that team’s season ends. The Panthers are free to hire a G.M. from the ranks of former executives who aren’t currently connected to any team. Then again, most former executives who aren’t currently connected to any team aren’t currently connected to any team for a reason.

They should hire Bill Parcells. He’ll conduct an exhaustive search and recommend the absolutely best candidate. He’s a guy who may be available the day after Kansas City’s season ends, and the fact that he’s Parcells’ son-in-law will be strictly coincidental.